Majete Wildlife Reserve

Majete Wildlife Reserve is a fenced and actively managed conservation area in southern Malawi known for large-scale wildlife restoration. After severe poaching in the late 20th century, the reserve underwent intensive rehabilitation and has since seen reintroductions of key species and substantial increases in wildlife numbers.

Today the reserve supports populations of elephant, buffalo, multiple antelope species and has been a focal point for rhino reintroduction efforts, resulting in regular safari opportunities and day-to-day wildlife viewing. Management has emphasised anti-poaching, habitat restoration and community partnerships to sustain long-term recovery.

Majete sits in southern Malawi amid miombo woodland and river valleys, reachable by road from nearby towns and serving as an important model for private-public conservation partnerships in the region.

• Reintroduction success: The reserve is widely cited as a conservation success for large-scale wildlife reintroductions and management partnerships that helped restore populations of elephant, black rhino and other species.
• Visitor experience: Managed with intensive anti-poaching and community programmes, the reserve now supports regular game drives and guided walking safaris for visitors.

• Plan visits in the dry season (May-October) when game viewing is best - Majete's restoration programs mean wildlife is concentrated and easier to find on guided drives.
• The reserve is managed in partnership with African Parks and is best experienced with park‑approved guides; book guided game drives or night drives in advance to increase chances of seeing the large mammals reintroduced to the reserve.
• Combine a game drive with a visit to local community conservation projects if available - many itineraries around Majete include community or village visits that explain the reserve's reintroduction and livelihood work.